 The Ancient City of Salamis; one of many treasures of North Cyprus January 22, 2021Kyrenia, North Cyprus North Cyprus has a lot more to offer than the sunny weather and the golden sandy beaches for its visitors and residents. Every inch of the island offers a piece of the past that one can take a short walk around and enjoy.  The findings show that the settlements in Cyprus have begun as early as 10,000 BC, where the World’s earliest water wells are discovered. The biggest civilizations of Europe and the Middle East had come and gone and left their mark including; the Achaean Greeks, Ancient Egyptians, Persian Empire (Alexander the Great), Hellenistic Greeks, Roman Empire, Byzantine Empire, French House of Lusignans, Venetian Empire, Ottoman Empire and the British. This has not only left behind historical artifacts, but it also left its impact on the island’s diverse culture, architecture, cuisine, language…  Having an Ancient Roman Theater or a Venetian Walled city in your neighborhood is something that is often overshadowed by sea views or amenities when potential properties are considered but this aspect also adds value to the occupancy of the investment properties. Having a property near these ancient cities or buildings means higher rental potential due to the portion of tourists that come to the island for its history and culture. Being in walking or a short drive distance of these gems lets one enjoy the tales and stories of Cyprus even more vividly. It definitely is something to consider that adds value to the guest’s or residents’ experience.  Cyprus is the first country in the world to be governed by a Christian Ruler, Sergius Paulus during the ruling of the Roman Empire in 45AD. Roman Cyprus was visited by the Apostles Paul, Barnabas and St. Mark who came to the island at the beginning of their first missionary journey, according to Christian tradition converting the people of Cyprus to Christianity and founding the Church of Cyprus. This has brought one of the oldest independent churches ever made to the Island. Cyprus figures prominently in the early history of Christianity, being the first province of Rome to be ruled by a Christian governor, in the 1st Century and providing a backdrop for events in the New Testament. Religion has brought the island the most impressive architectural structures.  Below is a historic gem of many you can read about and visit today along the North Coast of the Island. The Ancient City of Salamis The ancient city of Salamis lies on the coast of Iskele and Bafra and was the capital of Cyprus in 1100 BC, in the Late Bronze Age. It had survived successive occupations from Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, Romans and was the first destination of Paul the apostle and the Cypriot-born St. Barnabas from Syria in the First Missionary Journey. Salamis was the first stop on Saint Paul’s journey after heading out from Antioch of Syria, considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age.  The first coins minted in Salamis were in the 6th Century BC during the ruling of the Persian Empire, until the march of Alexander the Great into Asia Minor. Later in the Roman periods in 58BC Salamis has also become a major activity center with trading ships arriving from all over the world.  The Gymnasium is the most impressive part of Salamis. Following the Great Earthquake 76 AD, it was built by the Great Roman Emperor Trajan and his cousin Hadrian. Statues surround the two swimming pools which are itself was surrounded on all four sides by Corinthian columned arcades.  The Roman Amphitheater of Salamis has a seating capacity of 15,000 people and the stage building holds various rooms and corridors for orchestras and actors. An altar devoted to the ancient Greek god of wine, Dionysus, with cylindrical bases dedicated to Marcus, Aurelius, Commodus, Caesar Constantius, and Caesar Maximian are at the center of the stage. Another Byzantine cistern, displays fragments of Christian paintings, comprised of three sections that open into each other, writings dating back to 6 AD have been discovered on one of the murals. The main panel of the cistern depicts a water scene of fish and plants with the image of Jesus Christ inscribed above.  One can also find remains of a Roman Villa, Byzantine Water Cistern, The Agora, Temple of Zeus, Campanopetra Basilica, Basilica of St. Epiphanios, Roman Baths, Tombs, Walls and the Historic Harbour in the site of Salamis. Regards, Soylem Coli Broker Assistant, Avertiss Real Estate *All images are copyrighted by their respective owners unless otherwise stated. The blogger doesn’t claim ownership to any of these images. Reference: Dronebook |
Mediterranean Condos by Soylem Coli 
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